A short guide to first person point of view

Ever wondered what it's like to walk a mile in someone else's shoes? Well, writing in the first person point of view lets you – and your readers – do just that. Suddenly, you're not just observing the character, you are the character.

First-person point of view is when the story is told from the perspective of an 'I' or 'we'. This 'I' could be your main character or a peripheral character recounting events. It's a bit like having a direct line to your character's thoughts, emotions, and experiences – no middleman necessary.

Strengths of first person

First-person narration has many strengths. One of its biggest perks is the sense of intimacy and immediacy it creates. Readers are plonked right into your character's mind. They can see what they see, feel what they feel, and know their innermost thoughts. It's like having VIP backstage passes to the concert of your character's life.

This point of view can also bring authenticity to your narrative. The story comes directly from the character, making it feel personal and raw. It also allows for an unreliable narrator – a character who tells the story in a skewed or biased way – which can create a delightful puzzle for your reader to unravel.

Challenges of first person

While the first-person point of view can make your readers feel like they're on a first-name basis with your character, it does have its challenges. First-person narrators are limited to their own knowledge and experiences – they can't report on anything they haven't witnessed or learned about. This means you have to be crafty in how you reveal information. And speaking of crafty, first-person narrators can sometimes be unreliable narrators.

💡 Read our tips for choosing the right point of view for your novel.

Writing in first person: Quick tips

1. Stay consistent: Once you've committed to the 'I', stick with it. Nothing pulls a reader out of a story faster than inconsistent point of view.
2. Show don't tell: Just because you're in your character's head doesn't mean you can skimp on showing. Use the senses, emotions, and actions to bring scenes to life.
3. Be real: Humans aren't perfect, nor should your narrator be. Give them unique quirks, flaws, and a distinct voice.

First person and you

Writing in first person can seem daunting, but with practice, you can navigate the 'I' like a pro. Just remember, it's about striking a balance between intimacy and information. Give your readers a peek into your character's mind, but don't forget to maintain the element of surprise. After all, nobody likes a spoiler!

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